Planning & Community Development

Building InspectionsThis department issues permits and enforces the standards of the Massachusetts State Building Code and the town’s Zoning Bylaws. New buildings and additions receive 4 inspections:

Foundation

Rough Framing

Insulation

Final Inspection

Altered buildings receive 3 inspections. The Commonwealth must certify the building commissioner.

Role of the Building Commissioner
The enforcement power of the Building Commissioner is total. He can order a building closed for non-compliance with its standards. The owner, landlord or tenant may appeal a ruling to the Board of Appeals, or directly to the Hampden County Housing Court. The Building Commissioner also enforces the Zoning Bylaws of the town.